We’re getting there!
Since the building work started in November 2019, we’ve come a long way – our beautiful two-storey extension is almost finished, creating a new Exhibition Hall and South Asia Gallery which will be the first ever permanent exhibition space in the UK dedicated to the stories and experiences of South Asian communities. Work to transform the Living Cultures and Manchester galleries is also underway and the new Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery and Belonging Gallery will soon start to take shape. An incredible amount of progress has been made, but there is still more to do!
The journey continues with the final phase of our transformation due to start in September. Although we are delighted to reach this important milestone, it is with a heavy heart that we must temporarily close our doors to the public so that this phase of work can take place safely. At 5pm on Sunday 29 August, the museum will close until late 2022, when it will emerge as a museum for the 21st century.
“We are excited to have reached the final stage of our transformation and I want to reassure our visitors that although our doors will temporarily close, we are still here for you. Manchester Museum exists beyond a building. Throughout the closure, we will be holding pop-up events and outreach programmes, and our collections are all available to explore online”.
Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum
What to expect in late 2022
Once construction work is complete, the museum will be bigger and more inclusive than ever before! With the new Exhibition Hall, Belonging Gallery, the Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery, and the South Asia Gallery, visitors will encounter new stories, more of the collections, and different perspectives. The museum will also gain an impressive new entrance on Oxford Road, a shop, café, and visitor facilities that are fully accessible. hello future is not just about the building, we will also launch a brand new programme of activities, events, workshops and more.
“hello future is a hugely important project that aims to build understanding between cultures and create a more sustainable world. Once complete, visitors will experience exhibitions that tell new, powerful stories and engage with big ideas”
Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum
Throughout the last phase of our transformation we will continue to share regular updates, news, stories and opportunities right here on the hello future blog as well as on our social media channels.
